The air here at Northcourt is absolutely buzzing – and not just with the joyful chatter of our guests! With this glorious sunshine finally upon us, our 15 acres of gardens have burst into a riot of colour, and the gentle hum of our resident bees fills the air. It truly is a magical time to wander through the grounds. We’re incredibly fortunate to have five thriving beehives nestled within our gardens. These busy little workers are making the most of the flowery abundance surrounding them, flitting from blossom to blossom, collecting nectar and pollen that will eventually become the most delicious honey. It’s a joy to watch them at work, a vital part of our ecosystem and a constant reminder of nature’s intricate beauty. The gentle drone of their wings as they go about their important task is a soothing soundtrack to the vibrant colours of spring. And the best part? The fruits (or rather, the honey!) of their labour are yours to enjoy. You can purchase our very own Northcourt honey directly from James – just let him know you’re after a jar. Or, if you’re passing through Brighstone, you can also find it at the charming Tandem Tearoom and the lovely Bluebells card shop, both nestled in the heart of the village. It’s a little jar of sunshine, courtesy of our amazing bees. If you are interested, you can also participate in a bee experience with one of the beekeepers while you are here. Enjoy a short talk, taste a selection of Isle of Wight honey, and observe the opening of a hive. To learn more or book your experience, visit www.iowbees.co.uk.
At Northcourt, we are passionate about celebrating the Isle of Wight’s rich culinary heritage. By supporting local food producers, we enjoy fresher, tastier food and contribute to our community’s sustainability and prosperity. From farm shops brimming with fresh produce to doorstep deliveries of gourmet delights, the Isle of Wight is a food lover’s paradise. Buying Local The Isle of Wight boasts a plethora of farm shops and local producers, each offering a unique taste of the island’s bounty. In Shorwell, we’re fortunate to have the fantastic Beef and Berry and the Isle of Wight Meat Co, both renowned for their high-quality, locally sourced meats, and in the case of Beef and Berry, local bread and pastries, and fresh fruit and vegetables. Both are a short walk away (although we would not recommend walking to Isle of Wight Meats at Cheverton Farm as there is no footpath), but they will also deliver. Just a short drive away, the Brighstone Village Shop is stocked with an array of fresh produce, dairy, and other essentials. Delivering the Island’s Best: Local Producers Who Bring Freshness to Your Door For those who prefer the convenience of home delivery, the Isle of Wight offers several exceptional options: Isle of Wight Tomatoes: Known for their incredibly sweet and juicy tomatoes, this producer delivers straight from their greenhouses to your kitchen. Their tomatoes are a staple in many local dishes and on the menu in many Island restaurants. J & B Fisheries in Freshwater provides a wide selection of the freshest seafood available. Their catch is delivered straight from the boat, ensuring that you get the finest fish and shellfish the Island has to offer. Living Larder: This wonderful service delivers seasonal veg and fruit boxes packed with produce grown right here on the Isle of Wight. Each box is a surprise of freshness and flavour, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthily and support local agriculture. Grace’s Bakery: Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread, and Grace’s Bakery delivers just that, and their range of artisanal breads, pastries, and cakes are baked with love and delivered with care. Discovering Local Farm Shops The Island’s farm shops are a treasure trove of local produce and artisanal goods. Harvey Browns is a food hall, butchery, café, and kitchen in Arreton selling vegetables from the family farm as well as a huge range of cheeses, meat, and everything from bread to wine. Briddlesford Farm has been a working farm at least as far back as the first Doomsday records where it formed part of the Manor of Briddlesford. Now home to a herd of pedigree Guernsey cows, the farm sells its own meat, cheese, butter, and milk as well as vegetables and bread, and has a popular café. Supplementing Your Supplies: Supermarkets with a Local Touch While local producers provide a wealth of fresh and unique products, sometimes we all need the convenience of a larger supermarket. Thankfully, the Isle of Wight is home to several supermarkets that complement the local offerings: Sainsbury’s, Asda, and Marks and Spencer in Newport Waitrose in East Cowes Tesco in Ryde and Freshwater These supermarkets not only stock everyday essentials but also often feature local produce, giving you the best of both worlds. Many of these stores also offer delivery services, ensuring that you can always have access to the food you need. Indulge in the island’s bounty and experience the true taste of local at Northcourt. From farm-fresh produce to gourmet deliveries, the Isle of Wight offers a culinary adventure that is as rich and diverse as its landscapes.
We now supply local lumpwood charcoal, which you can purchase to meet your barbecuing needs. Withywood manages woodland restoration projects here on the Isle of Wight, and your purchase will help continue this sustainable practice and supports a local rural business. Unlike briquettes, lumpwood charcoal contains no additives or fillers and is preferred by chefs and aficionados for its purity. It also burns hotter and is easier to light. These are priced at £9 for a 2kg bag and can be purchased by scanning a QR code. All proceeds (less VAT) go directly to Withywood.
At Northcourt, we understand that coffee is not just a beverage; it’s an art form. Which is why our properties are equipped with top-notch coffee machines to cater to your coffee crafting needs. Whether you’re craving a frothy latte, a velvety cappuccino, or a bold espresso, our coffee machines are there to help you perfect your brew. Wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and let the day begin with your favourite cup of perfection. To elevate your coffee experience, we source the finest coffee beans from Island Roasted, a local coffee roastery that shares our passion for quality. These beans are the foundation of the rich, flavourful coffee we offer to our guests. To complement your cup, we also provide Isle of Wight milk, adding a creamy and locally sourced touch to your coffee. Beyond the comfort of Northcourt, the Isle of Wight offers a vibrant coffee culture waiting to be explored. Here are some delightful coffee spots around the Island that you must visit: Freshwater Coffee House and the Piano Cafe: These cosy cafés in Freshwater serve exceptional coffee along with a delectable range of cakes and pastries. The perfect place to unwind after a day of Island exploration. PO41 in Yarmouth: A hidden gem in Yarmouth, PO41 boasts a warm atmosphere and a menu featuring specialty coffees and freshly baked treats. Don’t forget to try their signature drinks! The Garlic Farm: Known for its culinary excellence, The Garlic Farm also serves up fantastic coffee and you can squirrel watch whilst you sip. Chessell Pottery Café: Enjoy a rewarding coffee and piece of cake after walking or cycling here over the Downs from Northcourt. Café Isola: Located in the heart of Newport, Café Isola is known for its artisanal coffee and homemade cakes. It’s a great place to stop and recharge while shopping in the town. ComiCoffee: This quirky coffee shop in Newport is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. They offer a diverse range of coffee options, cool music, comics to read, superhero art, and original Batman on TV. Warren Farm, Bluebells Cafe at Briddlesford Farm, Quarr Abbey, or The Needles: These picturesque locations offer not only beautiful views but also great coffee. So, whether you’re sipping a perfect latte at Northcourt or exploring the Island’s coffee nooks, your taste buds are in for a treat. Savour the flavours of the Isle of Wight, one coffee cup at a time!
The Isle of Wight is a treasure trove of adventures and immersive experiences that cater to every interest and thrill seeker. From wine tasting and biking to boating and tree climbing, the Island offers a diverse range of activities that will create lasting memories. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adrenaline junkie, the Isle of Wight promises an unforgettable journey filled with excitement and discovery. Plan your visit to this captivating destination and prepare to be captivated by its endless possibilities. Caught Red-Handed: A Murder Mystery Experience This interactive murder mystery experience at Northcourt takes you on a thrilling journey to solve a captivating whodunit. As you unravel clues and interact with characters, you’ll be engrossed in an immersive theatrical experience that will challenge your detective skills. Relaxation on the Move: Mobile Spa Rejuvenate your mind and body as professional therapists bring the spa to Northcourt. The mobile spa offers a range of luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and beauty therapies. Culinary Adventures: Cookery Courses Unleash your inner chef with cookery courses offered by the Cookery Academy. Whether you’re a novice or an aspiring culinary master, these courses cater to all skill levels. Learn the secrets of creating delectable dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Thrills on the Water: Tapnell Aqua Park and Coasteering This inflatable water park, located in the scenic West Wight, boasts thrilling slides, obstacles, and challenging climbing frames that will keep you entertained for hours. If you crave a more daring adventure, embark on a coasteering experience at Freshwater Bay, where you can explore the stunning coastline, navigate caves, and jump from cliffs under the guidance of expert instructors. Riding the Waves: Surf or SUP Lessons Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, professional instructors at iowsurf.com will guide you through the exhilarating process of riding the waves. Choose from group surfing lessons or personalised instruction to suit your needs. Mountain Biking Delight: Isle of Wight Mountain Bike Centre Calling all cycling enthusiasts! The Isle of Wight Mountain Bike Centre is a haven for mountain bikers of all levels. With trails catering to beginners and seasoned riders alike, you can explore the Island’s scenic countryside on two wheels. Discover more about this thrilling activity located just minutes away from Northcourt. Adgestone Vineyard: A Journey Through Wine Take a captivating tour of Adgestone Vineyard (http://adgestonevineyard.co.uk/ ), one of the oldest vineyards on the Isle of Wight. Embark on a guided exploration of the vineyard, where you will learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the Island’s terroir and indulge in a tasting session. Cycling Adventures: Bike Hire to Your Doorstep Exploring the Isle of Wight’s picturesque landscapes on a bike is an absolute delight. Wight Cycle Hire offers the convenience of delivering bikes directly to Northcourt, allowing you to effortlessly embark on your cycling adventure. Choose from a range of bicycles, including mountain bikes and electric bikes, and set off on scenic trails that meander through charming villages, along coastal paths, and amidst the island’s stunning countryside. Enjoy the freedom of discovering the island at your own pace. Seafaring Excursions: Charter a Boat or Rib Ride Experience the thrill of the open water with a boat charter from Island Charters (http://www.islandcharters.co.uk/cowes/). Whether you’d like a leisurely cruise along the coastline or a high-speed adventure, a chartered boat provides a unique perspective of the Isle of Wight’s beauty. Alternatively, embark on a rib ride with Needles Pleasure Cruises (http://needlespleasurecruises.co.uk/the-trips/red-route/), Solent Rib Charter (https://www.solentribcharter.co.uk/locations/cowes-rib-charter/), Cowes RIB Charters (http://cowesribs.com/cowes-rib-charters/), Boat Charters (http://boat-charters.uk.com/rib_charter.shtml), or Griff Marine Services (http://www.griffmarineservices.co.uk/charters.html). Feel the wind in your hair and the thrill of speed as you explore the Island’s breathtaking coastline. Nature’s Splendour: Walking on the Downs The Isle of Wight boasts an abundance of stunning walks, particularly along the Downs. These expansive chalk hills offer breathtaking vistas of the island’s coastline, countryside, and charming villages. Lace up your walking boots and embark on a scenic journey, choosing from a range of trails to suit your preferences and fitness level. Royal Grandeur: Group Guided Tour of Osborne House Step back in time with a group guided tour of Osborne House, the former summer residence of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Explore the opulent interiors, meticulously preserved gardens, and the private beach of this magnificent estate. Learn about the royal couple’s lives and their significant impact on the history of the Isle of Wight. Immerse yourself in the grandeur and elegance of this iconic landmark and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s royal connections. Scaling New Heights: Tree Climbing Adventures Unleash your inner adventurer with a tree climbing experience offered by Goodleaf. Ascend into the canopies of ancient trees and enjoy a unique perspective of the Island’s natural beauty. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll learn the art of tree climbing and experience the thrill of being among the treetops. Unearthing History: Guided Fossil Hunt The Isle of Wight is renowned for its rich fossil heritage, making it a haven for fossil enthusiasts. Join a guided fossil hunt with Dinosaur Expeditions and explore the Island’s beaches, cliffs, and quarries in search of prehistoric treasures. Deep-Sea Fishing: Chartered Fishing Adventures For those with a passion for fishing, the Isle of Wight offers excellent opportunities for a chartered fishing excursion. Isle of Wight Fishing Charter (http://isleofwightfishingcharter.co.uk/ ) and Black Rock Charters (http://www.blackrockcharters.co.uk/ ) provide experienced skippers and fully equipped boats, ensuring an enjoyable and successful fishing trip. Whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned pro, cast your line into the deep blue sea and try your luck at catching a variety of fish species. Adrenaline Rush: Go Karting Thrills (https://www.wightkarting.co.uk/). Experience the thrill of high-speed go-kart racing on the island’s premier outdoor track. Challenge your friends or family members to a thrilling race, test your driving skills, and aim for the checkered flag. Immersive Entertainment: Buck Buck Games Engage in interactive, thrilling, and challenging experiences that blend elements of theatre, escape rooms, and treasure hunts. Solve puzzles,… Read more »
We have plenty of availability during January, February and March 2024, when we are now able to offer 30% late availability discounts on already excellent value stays. Enjoy the same accommodation and space at a fraction of the cost (when compared to the busy summer months). Discounted prices start from £240 per night, and when split amongst your group, would work at £13 per person per night (price based 18 sharing Northcourt House for 7 nights during January/February), or £685 per night for a 2-night weekend stay. Availability during April – August is very limited but there are still a few gaps here and there. Do send us an email or check for latest availability.
“Smell the sea and see the sky, let your soul and spirit fly” Van Morrison We’re great fans of the beach here at Northcourt and can thoroughly recommend it in winter or summer for long walks, big skies, and much more besides. For those of you who love a walk then there’s nothing better than feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair as you stroll along beside the sea. Escape from the confines of indoors, get your winter woollies and wellies on, and follow the Island’s coastal path to Chiltern Chine – our favourite winter beach spot. To the west of the village of Brighstone within a 10-minute drive of Northcourt, it is a small coastal gully created by stream erosion of soft Cretaceous rocks and brilliant for rock pooling and fossil hunting at low tide. In the summer months, we love to go to Compton Farm – just a 15-minute drive away. A mere quarter of a mile away from the farm is Compton Bay, a surfer’s paradise at high tide and a beachcomber’s at low. Rock pooling, sandcastles, and good old-fashioned beach activities like picnics, swimming, and sunbathing are all on the agenda as it is south-facing and so catches all of the sun. But don’t just leave Compton until the summer, explore in winter too! And here are just a few more reasons why you should visit the beach in winter or summer… The minerals and salt in seawater soothe aching joints. Workout in the waves. Playing those beach games. Vital vitamin D. Soaking up that sun is necessary for our bodies to function well. Clear the mental clutter. Technology detox. A great place to contemplate and meditate. So, come and stay with us, enjoy all that the Island has to offer, smell the sea and feel the sky and feel reinvigorated.
There is nothing better when you’re staying in the countryside than to stay put and do nothing, and as many of our guests will tell you, they do just that! With games in the paddocks, feasting and enjoying food and drinks with family and friends or just relaxing in a corner of the house or garden with a drink and a good book, sometimes staying in is the new going out. But if you do feel that you want to venture further afield, then the house acts as the perfect base to take long cycle rides down country lanes around the Island (if you’re brave enough), even following the final leg of the Tour of Britain (which never happened – another story!). Or you could just take a short trip for an ice cream in Brighstone or lunch at the Wight Mouse in Chale and reward yourself for a trip well taken. If walking is more your thing, then there are plenty to choose from with varying lengths to walk and effort needed. You could take a short 20-minute stroll through the woods popping out above the village with views across the southwest and to the coast or have an all-day adventure along many of the well-signposted footpaths and bridleways, perhaps stopping at the Blacksmiths outside Carisbrooke for lunch or the Red Lion along the River Yar – all AONB and with stunning views across the coast and Island. With fuel prices and also being eco being very much at the forefront of the news and of mind, there are various ways to enjoy the Isle of Wight without breaking the bank and keeping your eco credentials sound. Why not take the bus and leave the car behind? Catch the number 12 bus (which passes through the village with bus stop at the end of the drive) to the Needles, Compton or Freshwater Bay and then perhaps walk back along the Tennyson Trail and enjoy the sunset. Only £2 each way and buses which return well into the night. For those with electric vehicles, we have 2 new 7.2kW EV chargers, so no need for ‘range anxiety’, and there are public, fast EV chargers dotted around the Island. And with plenty of secure parking at the house, you can charge while you enjoy yourself. Plenty of options which depend on how energetic you’re feeling and how far you want to travel, but we do encourage you to get out and about to see what the Isle of Wight has to offer; whether you’re a fan of coast, cove, Downs or woodland and we know you won’t be disappointed.
There is something inherently holidayish and even romantic about stepping onto a ferry for the sunny Isle of Wight. Since the Victorians came to the Island to take the air and revel in the microclimate, a sense of decompression and escapism begins as soon as the ferry leaves its port, and you can sit back and enjoy the journey across the water. With the Island being served by three different ferry routes via Lymington, Portsmouth and Southampton, from south London you are only two and half hours away from your holiday, which is far closer and less stressful than a Friday evening trip to Cornwall. Added to that are the wonderful views, sunrises and sunsets across the Solent on all of the crossings, with our own favourite being the Lymington to Yarmouth route (a 40 minute crossing) with its far-reaching views across the Solent. And if that isn’t enough, you can also enjoy the picturesque scenes over the Isle of Wight’s AONB and biosphere landscapes as well as views towards the Needles. And when you get off the ferry? Well, it’s only a short twenty-minute drive to Shorwell down country lanes and rural scenic routes to Northcourt. Stop off en route for supplies at the charming and well stocked Brighstone Village Shop and pick up not just your groceries but local produce including cheeses, wines, eggs and treats. Best of all we can offer heavily discounted ferry tickets (over 50%) with costs as low as £8 per person each way (based on 4 sharing) which is a steal and gives you another great reason to visit. So, what are you waiting for? Make your booking, choose your ferry route and let the decompression begin…
Although this year’s summer may be winding down, we thought that we’d take time to reflect on just how wonderful a haven for wildlife we have here in Shorwell and at Northcourt in particular. Beginning with the village: Shorwell is a wooded enclave with a chalk stream, nestled at the foot chalk downs with a rolling, rural agricultural landscape leading to the coast. For those who are looking for tranquillity, escapism and inspiration, there are the elevated chalk downs, coastal landscapes which enjoy a lack of noise and light pollution and interestingly most of south-east England’s ‘Dark Skies’ are found in the area. The Island was given designated UNESCO biosphere status in 2019 and that makes it only the seventh UK destination to be awarded this very special award. Closer to home we are constantly in awe of just what’s on our doorstep here at Northcourt, as are our guests who love nothing more to enjoy the peace and tranquillity and of being amongst nature. The gardens offers shelter and sanctuary for all kinds of wildlife including hedgehogs, badgers, stoats, dormouse, and red squirrels and is also home of little owls which you can hear calling throughout the day. Their larger barn owl friends also nest in the Stables and this year we had kestrels nesting in a box in the kitchen garden which thrillingly, reared three chicks. You will see buzzards and if you are very lucky, the more elusive sea eagle soaring high above. Keep your eyes peeled at night and you will spot pipistrelle and long-eared bats, or even one of the UK’s rarest bat, a Bechstein which was found here some years ago. Northcourt’s grounds contain a spring, the Shor Well, which feeds a stream, one of the tributaries of the Buddle Brook and this not only provides the land with water but attracts insects (including humming-bird hawk moth), birds, small mammals and lush fauna to the fifteen acres of mature gardens. We have abundant trees, woodland, borders, and grasslands, all of which play their part in creating what is a foraging, roosting and nesting paradise for many species. On warm summer days there are wall lizards and slow worms sunbathing as well as glow worms to be seen on the terrace during summer evenings. Whatever the season, there’s always plenty of life to be seen in Northcourt’s grounds and, we must confess, we do sometimes take it for granted. So, if you’re coming to visit, bring your walking shoes or wellies, your binoculars and your enthusiasm for all that a proper countryside holiday has to offer. You’ll be delighted that you did! Image Andy Ames, Northcourt 2021
